Thomas Harriot College of Arts and Sciences

Interdisciplinary Programs

Great Books

John A. Stevens, Director, 3314 Bate Building

The minor in great books requires a minimum of 24 s.h. and is an interdisciplinary program housed within the Thomas Harriot College of Arts and Sciences consisting of seminars on themes in the humanities, natural and social sciences and the arts. The purpose of the great books seminar is to introduce students to a Socratic way of learning through dialogue. Students read original works analytically and advance positions which are put to the test by their colleagues and the instructor. The instructor acts to introduce and guide discussion, but more as a moderator than as a lecturer. Knowledge does not pass only from teacher to student through lecture; it is discovered together through dialogue. A course may not count toward the student’s major and the great books minor. A major in great books is available through the BA/BS in Multidisciplinary Studies. See director for more details.